Pasta & Cuore

Pasta & Cuore (Italian for heart) is most likely a place you’ve walked past in Mt Eden and slotted in the back of your mind. Someday it’ll be a nice place to go. It’s not fancy, not a cafe for your brunch dates.

The charm of the restaurant catches people even as you walk past and see the fresh pasta being made. Sold by the gram, plenty of people come in to takeaway (cozy dinners in – check!). Stepping foot in the busy restaurant, I was greeted by warm hellos from every staff member, even from those making fresh pasta at the window. Italian accents flew out everywhere.

Over a couple of visits, thanks to friends who love to share (are we even friends if not?), I’ve had the pleasure of trying their bolognese, mushroom gnocchi, lasagne, creamy Gorgonzola Lombardo spaghetti and meatballs. My favourite was the texture of the bolognese and the flavour of the gnocchi sauce – which was tantalisingly a bit spicy. I loved that none of the pasta drowned in the sauce, which showed off the homemade pasta.

The service was exceptional. Even on a busy night that was Valentines Night, the staff didn’t rush the service. As I was unfamiliar with Italian wines, the waitress brought out a tasting glass to make sure I really loved the wine she recommended – even though I insisted I trusted her knowledge!

Without a doubt, I would return to Pasta & Cuore. It’s the closest invite you will get to an Italian homemade meal in Auckland. If the charm of the Italian accent doesn’t sweep you away, the food will. Priced around $26 for the pasta portion, it has a slightly elevated price point but it’s well justified.